As a Nutritional Therapist (Pippa Mitchell) I have to complete a certain number of hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) annually in order to meet the professional requirements of my governing body, BANT (www.bant.org.uk).
This week I have completed several hours on the subject of cancer – including prevention, dietary and nutrition strategies to deal with the condition including advice on how to make changes in lifestyle and diet.
One was an online lecture from the Royal Society of Medicine that was focusing on gut health particularly probiotics, prebiotics and the health of the microbiome as well as dietary manipulation with emphasis on gut cancers.
I also attended a very interesting lecture by Dr Michelle Kohn and Meredy Birdi at the LOC (leaders in Oncology Care) in Harley Street, London.
Dr Kohn is the Director of Living Well Programme that provides supportive for those living with cancer, from how to cope with a diagnosis of cancer to managing the side effects of treatment and lifestyle advice.
I am sure I am right in saying that we all know someone who has been diagnosed with cancer of one sort or another and from my professional point of view, its so important that I am able to support them and their families with up to date and most importantly safe advice.
There is a wealth of different diets to be found on the internet, many claiming to ‘cure’ cancer and it can be so difficult to know what is good or bad advice during a time when you may be feeling both vulnerable and helpless.
I am happy to say that the ‘functional’ approach to medicine, diet, nutrition and lifestyle advice that I practice was the mainstay of advice given in the lecture I attended.
Good nutrient dense foods are so important especially when treatments and/or medications can affect the appetite, taste, gut function, fatigue etc.
Sleep and relaxation are also important factors to consider when you may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious and finding it hard to focus.
If you think you or a loved one may benefit from some nutrition and diet advice, do get in touch and we can discuss how I may be able to help you get the best out of your diet to ensure that your giving your body the best nutrients to help in healing process.
